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Canada to Announce Firearm Buyback Program Details Saturday

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  Published in Politics and Government on Friday, January 16th 2026 at 14:57 GMT by Toronto Star

Ottawa, Canada - January 16th, 2026 - After years of delays and mounting criticism, the Canadian government is poised to unveil the specifics of its federal firearm buyback program this Saturday, January 18th, 2026. The announcement, confirmed by Public Safety Minister Marie-Claude Bibeau's office, marks a significant moment in a contentious debate that has divided the nation.

The program's genesis lies in the government's 2021 ban on over 1,500 models of firearms, a move intended to enhance public safety. As part of this commitment, the government promised a buyback initiative aimed at removing these prohibited firearms from civilian ownership. The initial timeline, however, proved overly optimistic, resulting in a protracted period of uncertainty and escalating frustration amongst gun owners and political opponents.

Compensation, Eligibility, and Process: The Key Details to Come

The impending announcement will focus on several crucial aspects of the buyback program. Primarily, it will outline the compensation rates offered to firearm owners who voluntarily surrender their prohibited firearms. These rates have been a major point of contention, with many owners arguing that the proposed compensation is insufficient to cover the value of their possessions. The details will also clarify the eligibility criteria for participation, determining who qualifies for compensation and how the process for firearm surrender will be managed.

A Program Under Scrutiny: Criticisms and Concerns

The program has been plagued by criticism since its inception. Beyond the concerns regarding compensation, criticisms center on the perceived lack of transparency in the program's design and implementation. Gun rights advocates have consistently called for a more open and consultative approach, insisting that the government engage in meaningful dialogue with the gun-owning community before finalizing program details. Many feel their concerns have been ignored, fueling a sense of distrust and resentment.

Conservative Members of Parliament have been particularly vocal in their opposition, branding the program as excessively costly and ineffective. They argue that the initiative places an unfair burden on law-abiding gun owners, while failing to address the root causes of gun violence. Furthermore, concerns have been raised that the program could be exploited by criminals seeking to acquire firearms illegally through the exchange of funds or otherwise circumventing the process.

Government Response and Addressing Concerns

Minister Bibeau's office acknowledges the criticisms and states that Saturday's announcement will directly address these concerns. The government intends to articulate how the program will be conducted fairly, transparently, and effectively. This likely includes detailing measures to prevent fraud and ensure accountability throughout the buyback process. They will also presumably need to provide data and reasoning to justify the chosen compensation rates, hoping to alleviate some of the anxieties surrounding the financial impact on affected owners.

Looking Ahead: Potential Impacts and Future Considerations

The success of the firearm buyback program hinges on its ability to gain the trust and cooperation of the gun-owning community. A poorly executed program risks alienating law-abiding citizens and potentially driving the prohibited firearms underground, rendering the initiative ineffective. Conversely, a well-structured and transparent program could contribute to safer communities and demonstrate the government's commitment to responsible gun control.

The announcement on Saturday will be closely watched by gun owners, political parties, and civil society organizations alike. The details revealed will shape the public perception of the program and its long-term impact on Canada's gun control landscape. The government faces the significant challenge of balancing its commitment to public safety with the rights and concerns of responsible gun owners.